Sam Woodyard: Ellington's Rhythm Machine

Sam Woodyard (January 7, 1925 – September 20, 1988) was a legendary American jazz drummer. Born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Woodyard taught himself to play drums and gained experience performing locally in Newark during the 1940s. He played with Paul Gayten's R&B group and later worked with Joe Holiday, Roy Eldridge, and Milt Buckner.

In 1955, Woodyard joined Duke Ellington's orchestra, where he remained until 1966, making a significant impact. After his tenure with Ellington, he performed with Ella Fitzgerald and later moved to Los Angeles. Despite health issues in the 1970s, he recorded with Buddy Rich and toured with Claude Bolling. In 1983, Woodyard played with Teddy Wilson, Buddy Tate, and Slam Stewart. His final recording was on Steve Lacy's 1988 album, The Door.

Sam Woodyard passed away from cancer in Paris at the age of 63, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of jazz drumming.

Drum solo with the Duke Ellington orchestra.